Armenian Earthquake Survivor Arsen Asatryan Finds Hope In Art

Though he painted at a young age, he didn’t commit himself seriously to the art until after the 1988 earthquake in Armenia, which left him paralyzed.

In those years, painting became both a source of solace and a way to contribute toward Arsen’s medical expenses.

“I was in a wheelchair and I needed something to occupy myself, and a job that didn’t involve using my legs,” he says. “I decided to pursue my childhood dream.”

Arsen’s work ranges from traditional still life to Armenian iconography and biblical scenes.

He says he has been inspired by Armenian artists Martiros Saryan, Panos Terlemezian, Minas Avetisian, and Ivan Aivazovsky.

Last year, Arsen, 44, showed his work in an exhibition with his mentor, Mick Oxley, a UK-born artist who traveled to Armenia in 2006 to lead art workshops.

Arsen was one of Oxley’s students, and the two struck a friendship that led to the 2009 exhibition in York Minster, a cathedral in York, England. Titled “An Armenian Journey,” the six-week exhibition also showcased the work of Iranian-born artist Karen Babayan.

The exhibition followed an earlier display of Arsen’s work in Yerevan. In addition to showcasing his paintings, the exhibitions give Arsen an opportunity to raise funds for medical expenses surrounding his spine injury.

Arsen says his family has provided tremendous support throughout his newfound career. He met his wife when he was in the hospital after the earthquake. They married shortly thereafter and have a son and a daughter. “She made me see life again and love again,” says Arsen.

“It has been 22 years since I have been able to walk,” he says. But Arsen is optimistic about recent developments in spine treatments.

“For the first time, I believe that I can actually start walking again,” he says. “That there is a chance that I can dance with my wife and daughter, and play soccer with my son.”